South Africa’s leading Marine Protected Reserves of 2024

South Africa’s Marine Protected Reserves (MPRs) play a crucial role in preserving ocean ecosystems and are considered among the finest globally. Tourists and conservationists from around the world flock to these exceptional sites, which many locals might overlook despite their proximity.

SOUTH AFRICAN MARINE PROTECTED RESERVES

Below we’ll list the top Marine Protected Reserves in South Africa in 2024 across three different provinces:

1. DE HOOP

Also know as the Whale Trail, it’s not far from the Cape Agulhas tourist trap and is widely regarded as the best whale-watching destination in the world. Up to 350 migrating Southern Right Whales have been recorded in the bay at one time. Plus, here you will also see Bryde’s and Humpback Whales. That’s in addition to Bottlenose Dolphins and a wide array of sharks and rays from Great Whites to Hammerheads and Eagle Rays. Better still, the whole reserve extends 48 km along the Southern Coast and offers unique shore-based hiking through the warren of untouched fynbos trails.

2. ISIMANGALISO

Translated as ‘miracles and wonder,’ this Marine Protected Reserve is in KwaZulu-Natal’s Maputaland North Coast. Forming part of the Wetlands Park, it is also South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will find the rediscovered Coelacanths – a fish believed to be extinct since the time of dinosaurs. There are also Leatherback and Loggerhead Turtles. Not to mention a myriad of sharks, mantas, marlin, Spider Crabs and Rock Lobsters. Scuba diving in the world-famous Sodwana corals reefs is an absolute must.

3. PONDOLAND

The second-largest of South Africa’s Marine Protected Reserves lies in the Eastern Cape. The 90 km stretch of secluded Wild Coast, from Port Edward to Port St Johns, features many threatened and endemic linefish. These include Red Steenbras, Black Musselcracker, Scotsman and Dageraad. Gannets, sharks, dolphins and whales can also be found during the annual sardine run. A must-visit if you’re looking for real African adventure.  

4. TSITISIKAMMA

Referred to by many as the crown jewel of South African Marine Protected Reserves, this Garden Route wonderland borders the Eastern and Western Cape. Established back in 1964, it is an invaluable national asset, stretching 60 km from Groot River East to West, it also extends 5.6 km out to sea. In it you’ll find all the linefish, whales, sharks and dolphins. Plus, Cape Cormorants, Kelp Gulls, Oystercatchers and Clawless Otters. The landed reserve is characterised by dramatic cliffs and ancient yellowwood forests which a picture perfect every step of the way.